Points Only: Matthews or Laine

[Fast Tony DeNiro]

Laine just won the Jari Kurri trophy.... Finland's version of the Conn Smythe.... As a 17 year old. Completely carried his team to the finals.

I don't believe Matthews is the clear choice for #1 at this point. This isn't just a bump for Laine due to his WJC. He's now been doing this for several months. Matthews still likely goes #1 due to being a center, but in fantasy it's damn close between these two.

[blackaces]

What each player does in the upcoming World Championship might just determine who goes first.

[Eskimo Brother]

What each player does in the upcoming World Championship might just determine who goes first.

Positional need may play more of a factor in the pick. With Bennett and Monahan, Calgary for example might be one to go with Matthews.

[GavinC]

Positional need may play more of a factor in the pick. With Bennett and Monahan, Calgary for example might be one to go with Matthews.

I would think if Arizona wins there is no way they go with anyone but Matthews. Positional need, plus a hometown kid to hopefully boost ticket sales/attendance? That's one team that I can't see drafting Laine.

[GavinC]

Just listening to Ferraro break down the first two games for these guys, obviously very different opponents/positional situations/linemates, but lots of comparisons/mentions about Matthews being a two way/complete player/Toews/etc. Laine half way to matching the record for most points by an U18.

Gonna be fun to watch!

[Zorro]

Wow...... Laine sure was a stud today!! Those two goals were a pair of beauties!!

[Big Baby]

Wow...... Laine sure was a stud today!! Those two goals were a pair of beauties!!

I wonder what Vegas has the odds at for Laine going 1st overall, Cause id be all over that.

Especially because EVERYONE has already anointed Matthews the Maple leafs next saviour.

Lou and Kyle may throw a curveball.

[Zorro]

I wonder what Vegas has the odds at for Laine going 1st overall, Cause id be all over that.

Especially because EVERYONE has already anointed Matthews the Maple leafs next saviour.

Lou and Kyle may throw a curveball.

And give up the #1 center the Leafs have coveted since Sundin left town??

[ericdaoust]

And give up the #1 center the Leafs have coveted since Sundin left town??

But they already have Tyler Bozak!

[Zorro]

But they already have Tyler Bozak!

And the lightning rod >> Kadri

[Mr. Guru]

All this after Laine played Belarus lol

[Bra]

Matthews has a shitty attitude and reminds me of Kessel.

Matthews will likely get picked 1st overall but Laine will be the better fantasy own. By a long shot.

[Mr. Guru]

First I've read that.

Where did you get that info from?

[ericdaoust]

It's probably because he chose to play in Europe instead of North America. Personally I like what he did this year.

[Axeman33]

I honestly believe any of the top three kids can be the best of the bunch.

Matthews has had the hype for a full year now as the expected #1 pick for this years draft. Laine and Puljujarvi have come along and certainly put doubt in some peoples minds.